ABSTRACT
The cells of the body require a continuous supply of oxygen to produce energy and carry out their metabolic functions. Furthermore, these aerobic metabolic processes produce carbon dioxide, which must be continuously eliminated. The primary functions of the respiratory system include:
• Obtaining oxygen from the external environment and supplying it to the body’s cells
• Eliminating carbon dioxide produced by cellular metabolism from the body
The process by which oxygen is taken up by the lungs and carbon dioxide is eliminated from the lungs is referred to as
gas exchange
.
